MCCF receives $250,000 grant to address early childhood education challenges

Jennifer Troxell of Mapt Solutions stands at the front of the table during a task force meeting April 2 at the Montgomery Community Foundation in Crawfordsville. Seated front right is Lori Greene of Nucor, with Natalie Brake of Early Learning Indiana seated back right. Across the table are Dr. Rex Ryker, superintendent of Crawfordsville Community School Corp., front, and Gina Haile, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of Montgomery County, back left. The group gathered to kick off its work.

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Early Learning Indiana has awarded a $250,000 grant to the Montgomery County Community Foundation to support a community-driven strategy to address pressing early childhood education challenges in Montgomery County.

The funding will support the work of a local task force made up of community stakeholders who will collaborate to develop a comprehensive, locally informed plan to strengthen early childhood education and access to high-quality early childhood education.

“At a time when early childhood education remains a significant challenge across Indiana, it’s critical that solutions are shaped at the local level,” said Erin Kissling, CEO of Early Learning Indiana.

“Montgomery County brings together strong community partners who understand the importance of early learning and are committed to working collaboratively. We believe that by supporting this kind of local leadership, communities can develop thoughtful, sustainable approaches that reflect their unique needs and opportunities.”

The locally led task force will focus on identifying barriers, exploring innovative solutions, and aligning resources to better support young children and families throughout the community.

Caryn Heisel, business development officer at Hoosier Heartland State Bank, and member of the task force highlighted the collaborative nature of the effort and the shared vision driving the group forward.

“As someone who has lived in this community nearly my entire life and is raising a family here, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges families face,” Heisel said. “There simply aren’t enough seats, and staffing shortages have made it even harder as providers close and educators move on. That’s why this work matters. It’s going to take new ideas, stronger partnerships and a shared commitment from across the community. I’m excited to see what we can build together and how we can create real solutions for families.”

This initiative reflects a growing recognition that addressing early childhood education challenges requires coordinated, community-specific approaches. By leveraging local expertise and partnerships, Montgomery County aims to create sustainable solutions that will benefit children, families and the broader community for years to come.